Evaluation of the concentration of serum Mn, Se, iron, Cu & Zn levels in obese and overweight adolescents, Correlate the body composition parameters with these minerals' concentration, Study the association between the metabolic risk factors and the disturbance in minerals levels in these patients.

Obesity in the population tends to be a notable public health threat on the global scale . individuals with higher body mass index (BMI) are considered to have a lower life expectancy . Among the obesity-related indicators, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is acknowledged an emerging and sensitive predictor for the risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease . Therefore, adverse VAT accumulation can influence metabolic health in the population, and its related risk factors should be further investigated.

Micronutrients in obese people are explored because of an excess energy consumption, and therefore, an inadequate intake of trace elements and minerals. This imbalance among energy consumption and the intake is known as hidden hunger. Obesity can lead to nutritional metabolic disorders, in which the general state of trace elements and minerals are altered.

Only a few studies on child and adolescents obesity concerned Trace Elements (TE). TE is involved in the pathogenesis of obesity and obesity related diseases. We tried to assess trace elements status [ Manganese (Mn), selenium (Se) copper (Cu),zinc (Zn)] in obese children and their relationships with VAT and metabolic risk factors of obesity.

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace element . It plays an important role in fat metabolism.

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that acts as an antioxidant and possesses multiple metabolic properties.

Copper (Cu) is a trace element that is vital. Cu has been reported to play a role in fat metabolism.

Zinc (Zn) plays an important role. Its deficiency impairs growth, metabolism and immunity.

Iron (Fe) is an essential trace element to sustain all forms of life. Existing research indicates iron deficiency is one of the comorbidities associated with obesity .

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients in adolescent age (12-18 years old)
2. Patients with BMI over 25.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients younger than 12 years old or older than 18 years old.
2. Patients with history of chronic use of mineral and /or vitamin supplements .
3. Patients with syndromal obesity , endocrine disorder and history of any chronic diseases ,
4. Patients under special diets or chronic use of medication .

Normal,overweight and obese adolescents